Evaluation of the potential of Pontederia parviflora Alexander in the absorption of copper (Cu) and its effects on tissues

Abstract

The study sought to evaluate the potential of the aquatic macrophyte Pontederia parviflora Alexander in the absorption of copper (Cu) and possible variations in its tissues after 21 days of exposure to this metal. The concentration of Cu was analyzed in the solution and in the vegetal tissues (stem, root and leaves). The experiment was set up in triplicates with weekly measurements of pH, temperature and DO. The results indicated that P. parviflora reduced 96% of Cu in the solution and the root was the vegetal tissue, which accumulated more Cu. Values of pH, DO and temperature were in accordance with the metabolic activities of the plants. In the anatomic analyses, dark spots were identified in the vascular bundles and in the epidermis of the aerial parts, highlighting the variation resulting from the presence of this substance. However, these variations were not sufficient to damage the development of the individuals. P. parviflora showed high capacity of extraction and storage of the metal, being a good alternative to aquatic environments with high concentrations of Cu.